Mount Isa researcher helps Indigenous Australians with drug problems

Date posted: 1 February 2016

A James Cook university (JCU) researcher supports people who fall through the gaps left by traditional social services.

Based at JCU's Mt Isa centre for rural and remote health (MICRRH) in Queensland (QLD), Stephanie King volunteers her time to co-run a network of community yarning circles, for people who might be struggling with alcohol and other drug (AOD) issues.

'They might need help but don’t meet the criteria for assistance that’s available. There are lots of gaps,' Ms King said.

‘We’re building families up to be strong, to have the knowledge around drugs, to support each other and to recognise and support family who are struggling with addictions,’ she said. ‘We find out how we can best support people, whether that is externally or otherwise, and where there is no process we do our best to support their journey to getting healthy and well.’